Zayn Malik Faces Backlash After Saying He Was “Never in Love” With Gigi Hadid

Zayn Malik has ignited a wave of criticism after admitting he doesn’t believe he was ever truly in love with Gigi Hadid, despite their six-year relationship and shared daughter. The 33-year-old former One Direction star made the revelation during a recent appearance on the Call Her Daddy podcast with host Alex Cooper. Malik reflected on his relationship with Hadid, which began in late 2015 and ended in 2021, saying that while he once thought it was love, his perspective has shifted with time.

“At that moment in time, I might have thought it was love, but as I got older, I realized maybe it wasn’t,” Malik explained. “Maybe it was lust, maybe it was this, maybe it was that. I don’t feel like it was love.”

Despite questioning the nature of their romance, Malik emphasized his respect for Hadid, 30, acknowledging her importance as the mother of their five-year-old daughter, Khai. “I will always love G because she is the reason my child is on this earth, and I have the utmost respect for her,” he said.

Fans React Strongly

Malik’s comments quickly sparked debate online. Many fans criticized him for making such a statement publicly, arguing that it was disrespectful given the length of the relationship.

• One user on X wrote: “This is a terrible thing to say publicly about someone you were with for six years.”
• Another added: “Imagine Gigi sitting at home hearing that her 20s were basically a misunderstanding of his feelings.”

Some fans accused Malik of reducing Hadid’s role in his life to motherhood, pointing out that his respect seemed tied only to their daughter.

However, others praised Malik’s honesty, describing his remarks as a raw and reflective insight into how people’s understanding of love evolves over time. One supporter wrote: “A very honest take on love and growth.”

A Changing Definition of Love

Malik explained that his definition of love continues to develop. While he may have believed he was in love during the relationship, he now views it differently. “The way I describe love is always developing,” he said, suggesting that what felt like love in the past may not align with his current understanding.

Hadid has not publicly responded to Malik’s comments. The Independent has reached out to Malik’s representatives for further clarification. The remarks highlight the complexities of long-term relationships and how perspectives can shift with maturity. For Malik, the bond he shared with Hadid may not fit his present definition of love, but he maintains deep respect for her as the mother of his child.